As the name implies, this is the town that was the model for the cartoon. Aside from the buildings being aligned on both sides of the street, the two towns don’t share much else in common. This is more of a recreation ghost town separate from the real town and operated as a tourist site by the towns’ people. All the buildings are original, but have been maintained to preserve the look and function. During the months of mid May through mid October, the street and buildings are opened up to foot traffic for a $3 fee per person. This has since been increased to $7.50 for the tour and museum. There is a school house, wagons, mine carts, and an old steam train and depot. Since we arrived on a February afternoon, they were not technically open, but we could still walk the street and shoot the buildings and train, albeit in a few inches of packed snow. The positive to this was that we had the town to ourselves.
Getting here is an easy and scenic drive either south via 285 over Kenosha Pass, or west on I-70 to Dillon, and south through Breckenridge. Either way you go, be sure to continue on through, as both routes are very scenic. Worth Noting: If you’re in the area, there are some great views of the surrounding mountains and valleys closer to Kenosha Pass. Also, Kenosha Pass is a park with lots of aspen groves that make for great fall shots. If you go north from South Park City to Breckinridge, stop in the town and cruise the shops including John Fielder’s Colorado shop.
